My passion and experience for dentistry assures me that I really want to be a dentist. I have been in school since spring 2016 and although there have been many times where I have doubted myself because of a bad grade or feeling overwhelmed, I have learned to push myself and keep going. There is no going back and no matter what, you have to jump through all the hurdles to get to your dream! Currently, the only career option I am considering is to become a dentist unless if I do not get accepted the first time, then I have considered becoming a mid level dental provider until I get accepted. At my internship site, I have learned about many aspects of public health which is focused on prevention and the well-being of the community and that is something that I can contribute to in the dental field. My internship experience has also contributed to assuring me of my career option as it has made me think of ways I can be more involved in the community.

• Improve professional networking
• Improve writing and communication skills
• Strategic thinker
• Leadership

• My current academic goals include to determine what study skills work best for me to apply it to future rigorous classes and especially when I am in dental school. Throughout my journey of finding improved study skills, my goal is to finish my remaining coursework with a strong academic record. Towards the end of spring 2020 and throughout summer 2020, another goal is to study for the Dental Admissions Test and take the exam in the fall of 2020.
• Based on my experiences and growing knowledge of dentistry, I feel confident in my decision because each day dentistry is evolving and I am amazed by how much of a difference dentistry can impact someone's life. In addition to those experiences, I will expand my horizons and next explore public health dentistry, shadow other dental offices, and shadow a dental laboratory.
• I plan on exploring my remaining semesters at IUPUI by completing another of the RISE challenges although I am not sure which one yet. I would also like to explore other extracurricular activities I can participate in whether it is joining a new student club or organization. At some point, another goal is to be able to volunteer in teaching children about oral hygiene instructions so hopefully I can find that through campus events.
• This year, I plan on talking to military recruiters to learn about being a military dentist. I became interested in the military profession a few years ago but, as I get closer to the application process, I think it is time to start inquiring.